Kisses

One regret, dear world,
that I am determined not to have
when I am lying on my deathbed
is that I did not kiss you enough.
Hafiz

This Persian mystic and poet calls to me
across the span of seven hundred years,
nudging me, urging me.
“Before death calls you,
make sure you plant plenty of smooches
on the earth itself.
Cherish creation.
Hold dear the days.
Caress that which is caressable.
Nuzzle that which invites nuzzling.
Nestle close to life.
Make time to enfold and be enfolded.
Be lavish with your love.”
The words of Hafiz remind me of my own deathbed,
and the numbered days I have between now and then,
and the unnumbered kisses that are mine to give,
if I only will.